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Winter Storm Warning issued

A Winter storm warning in effect from 2 p.m. this afternoon to midnight tonight and a wind chill advisory remains in effect from 6 p.m. this evening to 12 p.m. Wednesday.

A strong cold front will sweep through southern Wisconsin from west to east today. Much colder air will surge into Wisconsin on very strong northwest winds behind the front. Wind gusts to around 45 mph are likely this afternoon. Although snow amounts will generally be light, the strong winds will produce reduced visibilities in blowing snow. In addition, the strong winds will combine with falling temperatures to produce dangerous wind chills.

As arctic air pours into the area Tuesday night into Wednesday, temperatures will fall through the single digits and eventually below zero. Combined with the strong winds, wind chill readings of 20 to 30 below zero will be common.

A Winter storm warning is issued when snow, and/or sleet, and/or freezing rain is expected to combine with strong winds of 25 mph or more to cause major impacts to commerce and society. Travel will be dangerous and is strongly discouraged. If you must travel, keep a winter weather supply kit in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

A wind chill advisory is issued when the combination of very cold air temperatures, and winds of 10 mph or greater, will create hazardous wind chill values of between 20 below to 34 below zero for 3 hours or longer. These conditions will result in frost bite, and could lead to hypothermia, if precautions are not taken. If you must venture outdoors, wear several layers of clothing. If clothes become wet, they should be changed for dry ones.